Rose oil, particularly rose essential oil, is potent and can irritate skin if used undiluted. Diluting it with a carrier oil is crucial for safe and effective topical application.
Dilution Methods and Ratios
A general rule of thumb for diluting essential oils, including rose oil, is a 1% dilution. This translates to:
- 2 drops of essential oil per 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil
- 5 drops of essential oil per 10ml of carrier oil
One drop of essential oil roughly equals 1% dilution. For sensitive skin, children, the elderly, or pregnant women, a lower dilution of 0.5% is recommended. This works out to:
- 1 drop essential oil per 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil
- 2.5 drops essential oil per 10ml of carrier oil
Some pre-diluted rose oils are available commercially. These products often have a dilution already established, such as 10% rose oil in a carrier oil (as seen in one example). Always check the product label for the dilution concentration.
Choosing a Carrier Oil
Several carrier oils work well for diluting rose oil. Popular choices include:
- Jojoba oil: Similar in composition to human sebum.
- Sweet almond oil: Nourishing and easily absorbed.
- Fractionated coconut oil: Lightweight and won't clog pores.
- Coconut oil: Rich and moisturizing (note that it solidifies at lower temperatures).
The best carrier oil depends on your skin type and preferences.
Example Dilution: Making a 1% Rose Oil Blend
To create a 10ml bottle of 1% diluted rose oil, you would mix:
- 0.1ml (approximately 5 drops) of rose essential oil
- 9.9ml of your chosen carrier oil
Remember to always perform a patch test before applying any diluted essential oil to a large area of skin.
